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Best Toys For Bernedoodles

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
Published:  July 2nd, 2021

Bernedoodles can range between 10-90 pounds, and have varying needs in toys, so you’ll want to be sure you have the gamut covered. Here are the best toys for Bernedoodles we’ve found.

They’re adorably shaggy and super smart, and just like their poodle parent, can be toy, miniature and standard. That means there’s a lot of room for size variation. One thing’s the same for both the breeds that created this lovable combo–they like to play and they’re smart, so keep that in mind when shopping for toys!

1. Editor’s Pick: Trixie Snack Roll

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Bernedoodles, like most dogs, like their food and treats. Bernedoodles love the challenge in the play to get them, so this snack roll is a great way to introduce puzzles and challenges to your smarty pants. They love the thrill of the hunt, and so this basic starter will get them motivated for more!

2. Runner Up: Femia IQ Treat Ball

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This non-toxic treat ball does double duty for the doggy dentist as it helps keep plaque and tartar off your Bernedoodle’s teeth. It is a treat dispenser, so it appeals to their desire for the reward and is durable and bite-resistant so you can continue to use it over and over.

3. Best for Exercise: iFetchToo Ball Launcher

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Bernedoodle’s need good exercise, and they are excellent hunt and fetch mates. This iFetchToo Ball launcher uses full-size tennis balls for your medium-larger Bernedoodle and they are smart enough to learn how to reload themselves! It has a rechargeable battery and you can adjust settings for indoor/rainy day or outdoor use.

4. Best Interactive: OurPets IQ Ball

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You can adjust the challenge levels on this IQ treat ball to match the development of your Bernedoodle’s brain. It’s treat dispensing will challenge them at their level and motivate them to learn and look for more reward.

5. Best Treat Dispensing: StarMark Bob-A-Lot

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Whether you have a smaller Bernedoodle or a standard, the Bob-A-Lot can be a good fit. It’s a treat dispensing toy that challenges them with unpredictable wobbly dispensing and will keep them entertained while they figure out how the treats are coming out. It’s durable and adjustable.

6. Best Tug Toy: WestPaw Stretchy Tug Toy

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This tug toy stretches so you and your Bernedoodle can really enjoy a good tug-of-war, and it’s made of non-toxic materials from the U.S. It’s 100% guaranteed against dog damage, is dishwasher safe and comes in enticing colors for dog-to-dog tug of wars too!

7. Best Flavored: Benebone Bacon Treat Toy

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This bone-shaped, bacon-flavored dog chew is good for your Bernedoodle to enjoy even if you don’t use it as a treat-dispenser, as it will help keep their teeth nice and clean and last a while for engagement. If you do decide to use it as a dispenser, be prepared for it to become one of your dog’s go-to toys!

8. Best Squeaky: Hugglehounds Ruff-Tex Squeaky Tough Dog Chew Toy

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Every dog has a toy that is his favorite. One that he carries around with him wherever he goes. The hope is that toy is strong and durable that is while the Hugglehounds Ruff-Tex Dog Chew Toy is on our list. These toys bounce, stretch, squeeze and are perfect for a dog who lives to chew. The Hugglehouds have been CE certified meaning the toys comply with the highest safety and environmental standards, so it is good for you, your pup, and our planet. With eight adorable animals to choose from, this 100% all-natural rubber toy has an extra loud squeaker that we are sure will make it into your Bernedoodle’s best buddy list!

9. Best for Meals: PetSafe Busy Buddy Mushroom Toy

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This toy can be a great feeder/treat dispenser for your fast eaters. It tips, wobbles and rolls around to dispense kibble, and keeps your dog entertained, motivated and slowly eating, for better digestion. It is dishwasher safe and made for dogs over 20 pounds, so if you have a toy Bernedoodle, check sizing.

10. Best Ball Launcher: HyperPet Throw-n-Go

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This hands-free ball thrower is one of my faves because it has a place to hold an extra ball built right in. Your Bernedoodle (mid-large sized) will love chasing after the launched ball, and you’ll always have one on hand to keep the throw-n-go going!

How to choose toys for Bernedoodles?

Bernedoodles are smart, playful, and active, so you should pick toys that will entice them and keep them occupied for hours on end. Puzzle toys, snuffle mats, interactive toys, treat-dispensing toys, and ball launchers are all good options for a Bernedoodle. However, you should be mindful of your pet’s individual traits: Bernedoodles come in all shapes from mini to extra large, so be sure that the toy you’ve picked out is appropriate for their size, age, and personal preferences- while some doggos love nothing more than a game of fetch, others prefer spending their days chewing their toys, and so on, so pay attention to your dog’s playing style.

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Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

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How To Tell if a Dog Is Cold

You might think your dog feels fine in cold weather, thanks to their thick coat, but they can definitely feel the chill—and when they aren’t warm and comfortable, they could develop serious problems like hypothermia. So, it’s important to know the signs that your dog is cold, and to take steps to keep your pet comfy, whether they’re indoors or outside.  Although any dog can be affected by cold temperatures, wind, and snow, some are going to feel the drop in temperature sooner or more intensely. Puppies and seniors, as well as small dogs and those with short coats, are a few examples, along with hairless dogs and those who are ill or have chronic medical conditions.Signs Your Dog Is ColdHere are some of the ways to tell if your dog is cold:Your dog feels cold to the touch – An easy way to tell if your dog is cold is by petting them and feeling the temperature of their body. A good place to check is their ears, but also touch their paws, belly, and skin under their fur. If their body is cool to the touch, there are ways to warm them up.Your dog doesn’t want to be active – If your dog isn’t as active as they usually are, they might be feeling the chill in the air. Feel their body, as discussed above, to see if they’re cold, and take steps to make them warm. A dog who’s moving more slowly than normal while outside should be brought inside right away. Your dog is shivering – Just like people shiver when they’re cold, dogs will too, so this is an obvious sign that your pet needs to be warmed up as soon as possible. If your dog is trembling, consider the temperature inside your home, as you might need to turn the heat up. And if your dog is shaking while outside in the cold, bring them inside right away.Your dog is searching for ways to stay warm – If your dog wants to lie down next to the fireplace or heater, or they want to snuggle up next to you or under a blanket, they’re looking for ways to get warm. In addition, your dog might be reluctant to go outside, whether for a walk or to go potty. If they’re outside and you see them trying to find some shelter to warm up, bring them in immediately.  Your dog’s body language and vocalizations change – If you know your pet’s normal behavior and demeanor, it should be easy to tell when they’re cold. There will be signs that they’re uncomfortable, and they might exhibit anxious behaviors that let you know something is wrong. For example, your dog may tuck their tail, have a hunched posture, or curl up in a ball, and they might also bark or whimper. What To Do if Your Dog Is ColdWhenever your dog is showing signs of feeling cold, take action right away. Remember, a dog who gets too cold is at risk of hypothermia. Also, the cold can make some dogs, such as those with arthritis, experience even more discomfort. If your dog is outside, bring them inside. And if they’re wet from rain or snow, dry them gently.If your dog is already inside, move them to a warmer area, such as near a heat source and away from drafts.Help your dog feel warm and cozy indoorsYou can rub and massage your dog to help generate some warmth with your hands. Give your pet a cozy bed to rest in, and cover them with a blanket. You can also lie down next to your dog to help them warm up.There are heated dog beds you can use whenever your dog is chilly, along with dog heating pads that can work well too—just be sure to use these products as directed for safety and so your pet won’t get too hot. Keep your dog warm while outsideBefore heading outside with your dog, check the temperature. Generally, if it’s colder than 45°F (7°C), you should take additional precautions to ensure your pet won’t get too cold. But you know your individual dog best, so you’ll know when they need extra protection and less time outside.There are various jackets, sweaters, and boots made for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Put these on your canine companion before heading outside so they can stay warm while they go potty or go for a short walk.If it’s too cold for a walk or play session outside, don’t force your dog to stay out there. Instead, find ways to play with your dog indoors until the weather warms enough to be safer and more comfortable for your pooch.Use products that help your dog warm up and stay warmHere are a couple of items to consider buying for your dog: K&H Self-Warming Crate Pad

How Do I Manage My Dog's Separation Anxiety When I'm At Work?

No one likes to be separated from their cherished pet for too long. But going to work is unavoidable for most of us, and, inevitably, our pets have to stay home alone. It might not seem like a big deal to you, knowing you’ll be back after a few hours, but it is definitely a big deal for your dog. In fact, most pet dogs are affected by this separation so much that they can experience anxiety and stress, ranging from mild discomfort to severe panic. Needless to say, this is traumatic for your pet (and can result in destroyed valuables, too) so it’s important to learn how to help them manage anxiety when you’re away. Here are some tips to help you navigate your pet’s separation anxiety while you’re at the office. 6 Ways To Prevent Dog Separation Anxiety When You’re At WorkGoing off to work and leaving their pet behind is a challenge for many pet owners around the world, especially those who live alone. When you're at the office, you need to make sure your pet is safe and taken care of until you come back. But even when you organize everything, your pet might feel stressed out on their own - even when it’s for a few hours, your dog won’t know why you left or even if you are coming back which can be a trigger for a panic attack for some canines. Some, especially  velcro dogs, get so nervous and stressed that they develop a separation anxiety disorder. But even so, there are many ways to help your pet cope when you're at work, regardless of the severity of their anxiety – here are 6 ways to reduce stress for your four-legged bestie.Create a Consistent Routine:Dogs thrive when they have a routine. Establish a consistent daily schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime. This helps them know what to expect and when. You can create their schedule around your work hours, so your pet will not find it odd that you are not there when they know what to expect before and after your shift (e.g. walk and mealtime).Gradual Departures and Arrivals:Don't make a big fuss when leaving or returning home. Keep your arrivals and departures low-key to reduce anxiety. This helps normalize the process. Make it seem like you just popped out for a few minutes. If you help your dog understand it is not a big deal, they might pick up on your relaxed energy and stay calm when you depart.Offer Interactive Toys: 

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